What is Kriek and why Zomerkriek is special?
Kriek is a traditional Belgian fruit lambic made by fermenting or macerating cherries with spontaneously fermented lambic beer. The result ranges from tart and complex to fruity and approachable depending on the producer and technique. Zomerkriek, specifically, is a blend of kriek lambic and cider: the cherries are macerated with lambic for months, the lambic then matures further in barrel, and a final blend with cider is made shortly before bottling — giving a bright cherry character lifted by apple-driven freshness.
How do you pronounce "kriek"?
Pronunciation tip: say it like "kreek" (rhymes with "creek"). In Flemish/Dutch phonetics it’s roughly [kriːk], so many English speakers simply use "kreek."
Where can I buy kriek lambic?
Kriek can be found in several places depending on how rare or artisanal the bottling is:
- Local craft bottle shops and specialist beer stores — these often carry a rotating selection of lambics and fruited lambics.
- Online retailers that specialize in Belgian beers — search for "Belgian lambic online" or check well-known European beer importers.
- Beer festivals, taprooms, and Belgian-themed bars — good places to try different styles before buying.
- Direct from breweries or importers for seasonal or limited releases.
Tip: use search terms like "kriek lambic near me" or check apps/sites that track beer availability (Untappd, Beer Hawk, Beers of Europe) to spot current stock.
Does Tesco sell kriek beer?
Availability at Tesco (or any big supermarket) varies by country, store size and season. Larger Tesco stores and the Tesco online alcohol section sometimes carry mainstream fruited lambics or import packaged beers, but selection is inconsistent. If you don’t see a kriek listed on Tesco’s site, try specialty retailers, local bottle shops, or online beer merchants. For rare or craft krieks you’ll often have better luck with specialist sellers.
What is Belle-Vue Kriek?
Brouwerij Belle-Vue produces a well-known, approachable kriek that has been widely available for decades. Belle-Vue kriek tends to be sweeter and more immediately drinkable than many traditional lambic krieks, which can be drier and sourer. If you’re new to krieks, Belle-Vue is a recognizable entry point; if you enjoy more complexity, seek out bottle-conditioned or small-batch lambic producers for funkier, tart, and layered cherry character.
What flavors can you expect from lambic and kriek?
Lambic-based beers (including kriek) offer a broad flavor spectrum driven by spontaneous fermentation, barrel aging, and any fruit additions:
- Funky/barnyard notes from wild yeast (Brettanomyces) — earthy, leathery, or horse-blanket aromas.
- Sour and tart acidity — from lactic and acetic fermentation.
- Fruit character — cherries in kriek bring tart, jammy, or fresh-red-fruit notes depending on maceration; other fruit lambics can show raspberry, peach or apricot.
- Barrel and oxidative notes — vanilla, oak, or honeyed nuances from time in wood.
- Blends with cider (as in some modern kriek-cider hybrids) add apple crispness, tannic structure and a different kind of sweetness/acid balance.
Serving suggestion: pour gently into a tulip or goblet glass to appreciate aroma and carbonation; serve cool (not ice cold) — about 6–10°C (43–50°F) for best flavor lift.
Food pairings
- Soft cheeses (Brie, Camembert) — the acidity cuts creaminess nicely.
- Game, duck or pork with fruit sauces — complements cherry notes.
- Fruit desserts — cherry tarts, berry pavlovas; or contrast with dark chocolate for a bold match.
Try a balanced kriek-cider blend
If you’re curious about a fruit-forward yet refreshing take on kriek, consider exploring blends that marry lambic’s complexity with cider’s apple brightness. For a ready example that follows the traditional maceration and barrel-aging approach before a final cider blend, try
— it showcases cherry depth from months of maceration and the crisp lift of cider for an easy-to-enjoy, summery fruited lambic.
Quick takeaway
- Pronounce "kriek" like "kreek."
- Check specialist shops and online Belgian beer importers for the best selection.
- Belle-Vue is an accessible, sweeter kriek; artisan lambics are often funkier and drier.
- Kriek flavors range from tart cherries to wild yeast funk and barrel complexity — a rich world to explore.
